The Trade Minister says they're taking an "exciting step" as negotiations start on a free trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates. 

The Minister's met with his counterpart in Dubai in an attempt to strengthen ties with the economic giant. 

Trade Minister Todd McClay told Mike Hosking that the UAE is an important partner for New Zealand. 

He says although the current tariff rates aren't high, the potential for growth in the Middle East is large. 

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